Which philosopher introduced the concept of unfolding in child development?

The concept of unfolding in child development is primarily associated with Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Rousseau believed that children naturally develop according to their inherent abilities and that education should align with their natural growth processes. He posited that children unfold their potential much like a flower blooms, emphasizing that inner instincts and nature guide development. This approach contrasts with more rigid educational systems that impose external structures onto children, suggesting that a child's development should be nurtured through exploration and experience as they grow. Rousseau’s philosophy significantly influenced modern educational practices and early childhood education, reinforcing the idea that understanding child development requires respect for a child’s unique developmental trajectory.